Tobacco Policy
1. Purpose
Medical evidence clearly shows that smoking is harmful to the health of smokers. Smoke from cigarettes, cigars, and pipes is also an irritant to many nonsmokers and can worsen allergic conditions. In sufficient concentrations, secondhand smoke may be harmful to those with chronic heart or lung disease. Research indicates that long-term exposure to secondhand smoke may seriously threaten the health of nonsmokers. In an effort to advance individual health and wellness, a core value of Stetson University, and to provide a healthful working environment for every Stetson University student and employee, the following smoking/tobacco use policy is in effect. All University students, employees, and visitors are expected to comply with the regulations detailed in this policy.
2. Policy
Smoking/tobacco use, including smokeless tobacco products, is prohibited in all University-owned, leased, and/or managed facilities, including, but not limited to, classrooms, offices, dining facilities, residential facilities, and athletic facilities.
Smoking/tobacco use, including smokeless tobacco products, is prohibited within 50 feet of any building entrance, on balconies and porches, and in all spaces with official University signage designating them as "no smoking" areas. Smoking is also prohibited within 50 feet of any building air intake grille.
Smoking/tobacco use, including smokeless tobacco products, is prohibited within the seating areas of outdoor athletic arenas, stadiums, amphitheaters, and other athletic or entertainment venues where members of the University community and/or the general public assemble to witness entertainment events.
Smoking/tobacco use, including smokeless tobacco products, is prohibited in any University-owned vehicle, regardless of its location.
3. Supervisor/Employee Responsibility
Supervisors should allow employees who smoke reasonable time away from their work area to smoke. However, supervisors have the right and responsibility to discuss with the employee and use appropriate disciplinary measures should abuses be observed regarding time away from work for the purpose of smoking.
4. Enforcement - Employees
Complaints concerning violations of this policy should first be directed to the Supervisor or Department Head of the person in violation of the policy. If the complaint is not resolved at the department level, the complainant should direct the complaint to the appropriate Vice President or Academic Dean. The Vice President or Dean will attempt to resolve the problem, and if unable to do so, will bring the issue to either the Council of Vice Presidents or the Council of Deans. The appropriate Council will discuss the issue with the parties involved in an effort to provide resolution and may, if necessary, advise the supervisor to take appropriate disciplinary action if the employee repeatedly violates the smoking/tobacco use policy.
5. Enforcement - Students
Complaints concerning violations of this policy by students should be directed to the Director of Student Judicial Affairs.
6. Implementation
This policy is effective as of August 1, 2008.